KUALA LUMPUR – The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) has dismissed allegations of a cartel controlling the country’s film industry, insisting that screenings under its compulsory scheme are carried out transparently and in line with established procedures.
Finas chairman Datuk Hans Isaac said the agency was in the process of reviewing policies and making minor revisions to the Film Act to ensure equal opportunities for producers.
“We’ve discussed this, and I also contacted Afdlin Shauki to get clarification on the allegation,” Hans told reporters after the presentation of the Feature Film Screening Incentive 2.0 (ITFC 2.0) today, reported Bernama.
“From Finas’ side, our duty is to ensure every process is conducted transparently with proper procedures and governance.
“The public knows we have processes, and we always comply with them. But sometimes things change — we used to shoot using 35mm film, now it’s digital. The same applies to compulsory screenings and film placement. These are part of ongoing improvements,” he said.
The remarks came after Datuk Afdlin Shauki, president of the Malaysian Film Directors Association, alleged the presence of “invisible hands” influencing a film’s success, particularly in securing prime screening slots, promotions and distribution.
He described the system as forcing filmmakers to “gamble with fate”, where quality alone no longer guarantees success.
Hans, however, said Finas welcomes new distribution avenues, citing director Erma Fatima’s recently launched app as an example of how alternative platforms could expand opportunities for filmmakers.
“Anyone can do business and showcase their content. We (Finas) will not stop them as long as they follow the regulations. If they do not violate the conditions, Finas will continue to provide support,” he said. — September 30, 2025